Palm Springs has long been a desert escape for Hollywood’s biggest stars — a glamorous retreat where mid-century homes, lush gardens, and mountain views hide some of the most famous names in entertainment. Want to see where Frank Sinatra hung out by the pool or where Elvis honeymooned? With a self-guided driving tour, you can explore these celebrity hotspots at your own pace.
Why Celebrities Love Palm Springs
Since the 1920s, movie stars have been flocking to Palm Springs for its sunny weather, stylish homes, and privacy. The old Hollywood “Two-Hour Rule” (stars had to be within two hours of the studio) made Palm Springs the perfect getaway. From Rat Pack legends to pop icons and modern-day celebs, this desert oasis has hosted them all.
Top Neighborhoods for Celebrity Homes
To spot the most iconic homes, focus your drive through these neighborhoods:
- The Movie Colony: Once home to stars like Cary Grant and Dinah Shore, this area boasts classic Spanish-style and mid-century estates
- Vista Las Palmas: A favorite of Elvis and other 60s icons, this neighborhood is filled with “Alexander homes” — sleek, mid-century stunners.
- Old Las Palmas: Often called “Beverly Hills of Palm Springs,” this area has long been a hub for the elite.
- Twin Palms: Home to Frank Sinatra’s famous estate, this stylish pocket defines Desert Modernism.
Must-See Celebrity Homes
Here are some of the most iconic celebrity homes to look out for on your drive:
🎙️ Frank Sinatra’s “Twin Palms” Estate
- Built in 1947 by architect E. Stewart Williams
- Features a piano-shaped pool
- Look for the small sign out front — it’s easy to miss
💍 Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon Hideaway
- Known as the “House of Tomorrow”
- Located in Vista Las Palmas
- Futuristic design with circular rooms and dramatic flair
🎹 Liberace’s Lavish House
- Known for its mirror tiles and flamboyant decor
- Located in the Movie Colony
👠 Marilyn Monroe’s Rumored Home
- While not officially confirmed, she spent time in the area
- Some claim she lived in the Racquet Club area
🏠 Other Famous Homes
- Dean Martin, Bob Hope, Cary Grant, Leonardo DiCaprio (modern-day resident) all have or had properties you can drive past.
Self-Guided Driving Tour Route
Here’s a suggested loop to help you make the most of your time:
Start Point: Near downtown Palm Springs (Palm Canyon Drive)
Route:
- Drive north into The Movie Colony
- Continue into Vista Las Palmas
- Loop into Old Las Palmas
- Drive past Twin Palms to see Sinatra’s home
- Optionally loop back to Palm Canyon Drive for food and shopping
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours with photo stops and casual driving
Use a GPS map or self-guided audio tour app like Action Tour Guide for directions and stories as you go.
How to Spot Celebrity Homes
Some homes are clearly marked with plaques (like Sinatra’s), while others are behind hedges or gates. Look for:
- Unique mid-century architecture
- “Alexander” homes (clean lines, butterfly roofs)
- Discreet signage or guided app prompts
Pro Tip: Be respectful. These are private residences — no trespassing or lingering too long.
There are a few ways to navigate the tour and using an App is perhaps the simplest way to do it.
📱 App-Based Tours
- Action Tour Guide offers an audio tour that uses your GPS location to play stories as you drive
🗺️ Printed Maps
- Available at local tourist centers or online shops
- Good backup if you prefer analog navigation
Be sure to download everything in advance, especially if you’re relying on GPS or audio — not all areas have strong signal.
When to Take the Tour
- Mornings (8 AM–11 AM) are best for clear roads and cooler weather
- Weekdays have less local and tourist traffic
- Avoid peak summer afternoons — desert heat can top 100°F
Touring Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Bring water, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Don’t block driveways or take photos from inside private property
- Keep your windows down for better audio playback and a true desert breeze
- Make a lunch stop at a downtown café afterward
Conclusion
There’s no better way to feel the glamour of Palm Springs than cruising past the homes of Hollywood’s greatest stars. With your own wheels and a good map or audio guide, you can uncover a side of Palm Springs that’s both luxurious and nostalgic. So roll down the windows, cue up the Rat Pack playlist, and explore the desert escape of the stars.
Want more desert adventures? Pair this with a trip to Joshua Tree National Park or a stop at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for incredible views.
